The inequality of basic public services and the willingness to stay long-term of rural migrant workers at the county level: evidence from Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei in China

Abstract

This study examines how county-level inequality in basic public services (IBPS) affects the willingness to stay (WTS) of rural migrant workers (RMWs) in China’s Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Results indicate that IBPS positively affects the RMWs’ willingness to settle in counties. This effect operates through three channels: family migration (particularly migration with children), obtaining local hukou, and securing public-sector employment. Heterogeneity exists across regions, migration distances, and generations.